Devices and methods for restraining or inhibiting excessive breast movement

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to devices and methods for restraining excessive breast movement while a user engages in vigorous activity. In one embodiment, a method generally includes substantially entirely covering the user&#39;s breasts by wrapping a strapless breast restraint around the user&#39;s torso. The method also includes engaging first and second end portions of the strapless breast restraint to one another to thereby fasten the strapless breast restraint about the user&#39;s torso, whereby the strapless breast restraint compresses the user&#39;s breasts firmly against the user.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/604,605 filed on Aug. 26, 2004. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to devices and methods for restraining or inhibiting excess breast movement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

When active, well-endowed women typically endure discomfort as their bust excessively moves while participating in athletics and other endeavors, such as running, jumping, riding horses, among other activities. For this reason, many women wear sports bras while exercising. While sports bras can look stylish under athletic attire, many sports bras provide relatively limited support of the bust such that women can still experience a significant amount of discomfort from excessive breast movement even while wearing a sports bra.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect, the present invention includes methods for restraining excessive breast movement while a user engages in vigorous activity. In one embodiment, a method generally includes substantially entirely covering the user's breasts by wrapping a breast restraint around the user's torso. The method also includes engaging first and second end portions of the breast restraint to one another to thereby fasten the breast restraint about the user's torso, whereby the breast restraint compresses the user's breasts firmly against the user.

According to another aspect of the invention, a breast restraint generally includes first and second end portions, and an attachment device for engaging the first end portion with the second end portion. The breast restraint is configured to be wrapped around the user's torso and substantially entirely cover the user's breasts to compress the user's breasts firmly against the user. The breast restraint can be used in combination with a bra, or the breast restraint can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra. Further aspects of the invention include methods of using and making breast restraints.

Further aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary strapless breast restraint being used in conjunction with a sports bra according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 1 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the wearer's torso and over the sports bra being worn by the wearer;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the strapless breast restraint and its wearer shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a front view of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a front view of a strapless breast restraint including hooks and corresponding holes for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions to one another according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a front view of a strapless breast restraint including hook and loop fasteners for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions to one another, wherein the hook and loop fasters also allow adjustment to the breast restraint's functional length according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a front view of a strapless breast restraint including elastic and ruffles along the upper and lower edge portions of the breast restraint and zipper for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions to one another according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a plan view of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the wearer's torso and over a sports bra also being worn by the wearer;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the torso of a wearer, who is not wearing a sports bra underneath the breast restraint as is the wearer shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a front view of a strapless breast restraint including elastic and ruffles along the upper and lower edge portions of the breast restraint and hooks and eyelets for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions to one another, wherein the hook and eyelets also allow adjustment to the breast restraint's functional length according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a plan view of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the wearer's torso and over a sports bra also being worn by the wearer;

FIG. 15 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the torso of a wearer, who is not wearing a sports bra underneath the breast restraint as is the wearer shown in FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a front view of a strapless breast restraint including elastic and ruffles along the upper and lower edge portions of the breast restraint and hooks and eyelets along a back portion of the breast restraint for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions to one another, wherein the hook and eyelets also allow adjustment to the breast restraint's functional length according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 17 is a plan view of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the wearer's torso and over a sports bra also being worn by the wearer; and

FIG. 19 is an illustration of the strapless breast restraint shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 in which the breast restraint is fastened about the torso of a wearer, who is not wearing a sports bra underneath the breast restraint as is the wearer shown in FIG. 18.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The following description of the exemplary embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

According to various aspects, the invention provides breast restraints that can be used in combination with a sports bra (or other type of bra) to restrain or inhibit (and in some cases even prevent) excessive breast movement while the wearer is actively moving, exercising, running, jumping, riding a horse, etc. In other aspects of the invention, however, embodiments of a breast restraint can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra. Further aspects of the invention include methods of using breast restraints and methods of making breast restraints.

In an exemplary embodiment, a strapless breast restraint generally includes first and second end portions, and an attachment device for engaging the first end portion with the second end portion. The breast restraint is configured to be wrapped around and fastened about the user's torso such that the breast restraint substantially entirely covers and compresses the user's breasts firmly against the user. In some embodiments, the restraint compresses the entire breasts against the user especially at the forward-most portion of the breasts. In various embodiments, the breast restraint is configured to be positioned over a bra that is being worn by the user, while other embodiments include the breast restraint being wrapped around and fastened about the torso of a user who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra. Once wrapped around and fastened about the user's torso (regardless of whether the user is wearing a bra), the breast restraint compresses the user's breasts firmly against the user. Accordingly, the breast restraint can restrain or inhibit excessive breast movement as a compressed bust exhibits little tendency to move side-to-side and/or move up-and-down. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can reduce, if not eliminate, discomfort otherwise caused by excessive breast movement while a female (or male) exercises or performs some other vigorous activity.

Another aspect of the invention includes methods of restraining or inhibiting excessive breast movement. In an exemplary embodiment, the method generally includes substantially entirely covering a user's breasts by wrapping a strapless breast restraint around the user's torso. While wrapping the breast restraint around the user's torso, the breast restraint may be positioned over a bra being worn by the user. Alternatively, the strapless breast restraint can be wrapped around the user's torso, when the user is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra. After the breast restraint is wrapped around the user's torso (regardless of whether the user is wearing a bra), the breast restraint's first and second end portions are then engaged to one another to fasten the breast restraint about the user's torso, whereby the breast restraint compresses the substantially entirety of the user's breasts firmly against the user. In some embodiments, the restraint compresses the user's breasts against the user especially at the forward-most portion of the breasts. Accordingly, these methods relating to the breast restraint can restrain or inhibit excessive breast movement as a compressed bust exhibits little tendency to move side-to-side and/or move up-and-down. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can reduce and provide relief from excessive breast movement while a female (or male) exercises or performs some other vigorous activity.

Accordingly, various aspects and embodiments of the invention can be used independent of or in combination with a sports bra (or other bra type) to reduce or inhibit excessive breast movement of people participating in athletics and other endeavors, such as running, jumping, riding horses, among other activities. The inventor has recognized and fulfilled this need by providing various embodiments and aspects of the present invention that can provide more breast support than that provided solely by many conventional sports bras. Any of the aspects of the present invention can be used individually or in combination with any one or more of the other aspects of the present invention.

FIGS. 1 through 5 illustrate an exemplary strapless breast restraint 100 in accordance with the principles of this invention. As shown, the restraint 100 does not include any shoulder straps or arm holes, and thus is generally referred to herein as being strapless. Alternatively, other embodiments of the invention may include a breast restraint that includes shoulder straps and/or arm holes.

The restraint 100 can be used in combination with a conventional sports bra 104. The restraint 100 can also be used with a wide range of other types of sports bras, traditional bras, and the like. In addition, the restraint 100 can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra underneath the restraint 100. By way of example only, FIGS. 11, 15, and 19 respectively show strapless breast restraints 400, 500, 600 being worn by a wearer without a sports bra underneath the breast restraint 400, 500, 600.

With further reference to FIGS. 1 through 5, the restraint 100 includes generally opposed first and second end portions 108 and 112, and a medial portion 116 therebetween. The restraint 100 also includes means for engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another to thereby fasten the restraint 100 about the user's torso. A wide range of suitable means can be employed for engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another, such as magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, elastic bands, combinations thereof, etc.

In various embodiments, a breast restraint is configured such that its first and second end portions and the means for engaging the first and second end portions to one another are located at the front portion of the breast restraint when positioned about a user's torso, such as restraint 100 (FIGS. 1 through 5), restraint 200 (FIG. 6), restraint 300 (FIG. 7), restraint 400 (FIGS. 8 through 11), and restraint 500 (FIGS. 12 through 15). In other embodiments, however, a breast restraint device can alternatively, or additionally, be configured such that its first and second end portions and the means for engaging the first and second end portions to one another are located at the back portion of the breast restraint when positioned about a user's torso. For example, FIGS. 16 through 19 illustrate an exemplary breast restraint 600 having hooks 636 and eyelets 640 located at a back portion of the restraint 600.

With further reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the end portions 108 and 112 can be generally rectangular. In the illustrated embodiment, the medial portion 116 of restraint 100 includes a generally straight lower edge portion 120, and a generally curved upper edge portion 124. From the first and second end portions 108, 112 towards the medial portion 116, the upper edge portion 124 curves generally downward towards the lower edge portion 120. Accordingly, the upper edge portion 124 is generally downwardly and parabolically curved. This curved portion can accommodate the user's shoulder blades 128. During use, the curved upper edge portion 124 can be positioned generally under the user's arms 132 and generally below the user's shoulder blades 128. Alternative embodiments, however, can include a restraint having a generally uniform width, and upper and lower edges that are generally straight and substantially parallel with one another.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 through 5, the first and second end portions 108 and 112 include respective mating portions 136 and 140 of a hook and loop fastening system. These mating portions 136 and 140 are configured such that the end portions 108 and 112 can be secured to each other from the front of the user at about a middle of the bust, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Accordingly, the restraint 100 can be fastened about the user by engaging the mating portions 136 and 140 to one another. That is, the user can maneuver the second end portion 112 relative to the first end portion 108 to tighten the restraint 100 about the user's torso and also to align and engage the mating hook and loop portions 136 and 140 with one another. Conversely, the restraint 100 can be unfastened by pulling (e.g., in a generally continuous sweeping or arcing motion, etc.) the second end portion 112 generally outwardly from the first end portion 108 to separate and disengage the hook and loop closure members 136 and 140.

Some exemplary embodiments include wrapping the restraint 100 around the torso, and then engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another. Alternative embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another, and then slipping the user's head and arms through the restraint 100 to position the restraint 100 generally around the torso and over the user's breasts. Still other embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another, and then slipping the user's feet, legs, and waist through the restraint 100 to position the restraint 100 generally around the user's torso and over the user's breasts.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary breast restraint 200 in which the end portions 208 and 212 can be engaged to one another by hooks and corresponding holes. As shown in FIG. 6, the first end portion 208 includes hooks 236 each configured to be engagingly received within a corresponding hole 240 extending through the second end portion 212. In this particular embodiment, the restraint 200 includes three hooks 236 and three holes 240. Alternatively, any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) hooks and holes and in any suitable configuration (e.g., spacing, in one or more rows, in one or more columns, combinations thereof, etc.) can be provided for fastening the restraint's first and second end portions to one another.

In various embodiments, a breast restraint can also include means for selectively adjusting the functional or operational length of the restraint. For example, the first end portion and/or second end portion can include any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) strips of a hook and loop closure system dimensionally sized to allow the functional length of the restraint to be varied. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the restraint 300 includes first and second end portions 308 and 312. The first end portion 308 has a Velcro strip 336 extending along a significant length of the first end portion 308. The functional length of the restraint 300 will thus depend on the particular location at which the mating portion 340 is engaged to the Velcro strip 336. Alternatively, or additionally, other suitable means can be employed at the first end portion, the second end portion, and/or the medial portion to enable selective adjustment to the functional length of the restraint, such as magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, elastic bands, elastic or stretching features of the material(s) used to form the breast restraint, etc.

By way of example, FIGS. 12 through 15 illustrate an exemplary breast restraint 500 that includes hooks 536 and three spaced-apart vertical columns of eyelets 540. Accordingly, the functional length of the restraint 500 will thus depend on which particular column of eyelets 540 are selectively engaged with the hooks 536. Another exemplary embodiment of a breast restraint 600 is shown in FIGS. 16 through 19. In this particular embodiment, a back portion of the breast restraint 600 includes hooks 636 and three spaced-apart vertical columns of eyelets 640 such that the restraint's functional length will thus depend on which particular column of eyelets 640 are selectively engaged with the hooks 636.

FIGS. 8 through 11 illustrate an exemplary strapless breast restraint 400 having elasticized upper and lower edge portions 424 and 420. As shown, restraint 400 includes elastic 444 and ruffles 448 along the breast restraint's upper and lower edge portions 424 and 420. The elastic 444 and ruffles 448 extend continuously along substantially the entire length of the restraint 400 from the first end portion 408 to the second end portion 412. Alternatively, the elastic 444 and/or ruffles 448 may be discontinuous and/or extend along less than the substantial entire length of the restraint 400.

In this particular embodiment, the restraint 400 includes ruffles 448 on both the inside (as shown in FIG. 8) and the outside (as shown in FIGS. 8 through 11). Functionally, ruffles 448 include extra material to accommodate for the stretching of the elastic 444. In addition to this functionality, having ruffles 448 on the outside of the restraint 400 can also improve the aesthetic appearance of the breast restraint 400, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. In other embodiments, the inside and/or outside ruffles 448 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 400 is fastened about a wearer's torso. For example, the inside ruffles 448 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 400 is fastened about a wearer's torso, thus providing a restraint that may be more comfortable to wear. Alternatively, other embodiments include ruffles only on the inside or the outside (but not both) and/or ruffles that are not configured to be smoothed out when the breast restraint is being worn.

In the particular illustrated embodiment, the ruffles 448 along the upper edge portion 424 include stitching 452 generally along the middle thereof. Similarly, the ruffles 448 along the lower edge portion 420 also include stitching 452 generally along the middle thereof. Alternate embodiments, however, do not include such stitching along either or both of the ruffle portions.

In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic 444 disposed along the upper edge portion 424 comprises two elastic band portions that are retained to the breast restraint 400 in part by sewing or stitching. More specifically, the upper elastic band portion is disposed generally between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 400 and retained therein by stitching 452 and 468. The lower elastic band portion is also disposed between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 400 and retained therein by stitching 452 and 472. Likewise, the elastic 444 disposed along the lower edge portion 420 also includes two elastic band portions, with the upper one being retained generally between stitching 452 and 468, and the lower elastic band portion being retained generally between 452 and 472. Alternatively, the elastic 444 along either or both the upper and lower edge portions 424, 420 can include any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) elastic bands. In addition, other means of retaining the elastic 444 to the breast restraint 400 can also be employed in other embodiments.

In this particular embodiment, the elastic 444 can help ensure that the breast restraint 400 creates and maintains a relatively snug fit about the wearer's torso (and thus sufficiently compresses the bust against the wearer's rib cage to restrain excessive side-to-side and/or up-and-down movement of the breasts). The particular material or materials used for the elastic portions 444 can depend at least in part on user preference, size, and the type of activity to be performed while wearing the restraint 400.

Alternate embodiments include breast restraints having elastic and ruffles along only one of the upper and lower edge portions. Further embodiments include breast restraints having elastic (but not ruffles) along one or both the upper and lower edge portions. Still other embodiments include breast restraints having ruffles (but not elastic) along one or both the upper and lower edge portions.

With further reference to FIGS. 8 through 11, the breast restraint 400 also includes a zipper formed from portions 436, 440 for removably engaging the breast restraint's end portions 408 and 412. Alternatively, a wide range of other suitable means can be employed for engaging the first and second end portions 408 and 412 to one another, including magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, combinations thereof, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 9, the lower edge portion 420 of restraint 400 is generally straight. The upper edge portion 424 includes two curved end portions 460 and 464 and a generally straight medial portion 466. The curved end portions 460 and 464 curve generally downward towards the lower edge portion 420. Accordingly, the restraint 400 is wider at its end portions 408 and 412 than at its medial portion 416. This curved configuration can accommodate the user's shoulder blades and arms in that the narrower medial portion 416 of the restraint 400 can be positioned generally across the user's back generally under the arms and generally below the shoulder blades. The restraint's end portions 408 and 412 can be positioned over the user's breasts. Alternative embodiments, however, can include a restraint having a generally uniform width, and upper and lower edges that are generally straight and substantially parallel with one another.

Some exemplary embodiments include wrapping the restraint 400 around the torso, and then engaging the first and second end portions 408 and 412 to one another. Alternative embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another, and then slipping the user's head and arms through the restraint 100 to position the restraint 100 generally around the torso and over the user's breasts. Still other embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 108 and 112 to one another, and then slipping the user's feet, legs, and waist through the restraint 100 to position the restraint 100 generally around the torso and over the user's breasts.

In one particular embodiment, the breast restraint 400 is sized dimensionally such that its width (distance separating the upper and lower edge portions 424 and 420 inclusive of the elastic and ruffle portions 444 and 448) is about ten and one-half inches at the end portions 408 and 412 and about three and three-fourths inches at the medial portion 416. Excluding the elastic and ruffle portions for this particular embodiment, the width of the restraint 400 is about seven and one-half inches at the end portions 408 and 412 and about three-fourths inches at the medial portion 416. The dimensions set forth in this paragraph (as are all dimensions herein) are mere examples and can be varied as understood by those skilled in the art.

As shown in FIG. 10, the breast restraint 400 can be used in combination with a conventional sports bra 404 or other type bra. But the restraint 400 can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra underneath the restraint 400, as shown in FIG. 11. In either case, the breast restraint 400 can help inhibit and reduce excessive breast movement while a female (or male) exercises or performs some other vigorous activity.

FIGS. 12 through 15 illustrate an exemplary strapless breast restraint 500 having elasticized upper and lower edge portions 524 and 520. As shown, the restraint 500 includes elastic 544 and ruffles 548 along the breast restraint's upper and lower edge portions 524 and 520. The elastic 544 and ruffles 548 extend continuously along substantially the entire length of the restraint 500 from the first end portion 508 to the second end portion 512. Alternatively, the elastic 544 and/or ruffles 548 may be discontinuous and/or extend along less than the substantial entire length of the restraint 500.

In this particular embodiment, the restraint 500 includes ruffles 548 on both the inside (as shown in FIG. 12) and the outside (as shown in FIGS. 12 through 15). Functionally, ruffles 548 include extra material to accommodate for the stretching of the elastic 544. In addition to this functionality, having ruffles 548 on the outside of the restraint 500 can also improve the aesthetic appearance of the breast restraint 500, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. In other embodiments, the inside and/or outside ruffles 548 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 500 is fastened about a wearer's torso. For example, the inside ruffles 548 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 500 is fastened about a wearer's torso, thus providing a restraint that may be more comfortable to wear. Alternatively, other embodiments include ruffles only on the inside or the outside (but not both) and/or ruffles that are not configured to be smoothed out when the breast restraint is being worn.

In the particular illustrated embodiment, the ruffles 548 along the upper edge portion 524 include stitching 552 generally along the middle thereof. Similarly, the ruffles 548 along the lower edge portion 520 also include stitching 552 generally along the middle thereof. Alternate embodiments, however, do not include such stitching along either or both of the upper and lower ruffle portions.

In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic 544 disposed along the upper edge portion 524 comprises two elastic band portions that are retained to the breast restraint 500 in part by sewing or stitching. More specifically, the upper elastic band portion is disposed generally between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 500 and retained therein by stitching 552 and 568. The lower elastic band portion is also disposed between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 500 and retained therein by stitching 552 and 572. Likewise, the elastic 544 disposed along the lower edge portion 520 also includes two elastic band portions, with the upper one being retained generally between stitching 552 and 568, and the lower elastic band portion being retained generally between 552 and 572. Alternatively, the elastic 544 along either or both the upper and lower edge portions 524, 520 can include any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) elastic bands. In addition, other means of retaining the elastic 544 to the breast restraint 500 can also be employed in other embodiments.

In this particular embodiment, the elastic 544 can help ensure that the breast restraint 500 creates and maintains a relatively snug fit about the wearer's torso (and thus sufficiently compresses the bust against the wearer's rib cage to restrain excessive side-to-side and/or up-and-down movement of the breasts). The particular material or materials used for the elastic portions 544 can depend at least in part on user preference, size, and the type of activity to be performed while wearing the restraint 500.

The breast restraint 500 also includes hooks 536 and three spaced-apart vertical columns of eyelets 540. Accordingly, the functional length of the restraint 500 will thus depend on which particular column of eyelets 540 are selectively engaged with the hooks 536. Alternatively, any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) hooks and eyelets and in any suitable configuration (e.g., spacing, in one or more rows, in one or more columns, combinations thereof, etc.) can be provided for fastening the restraint's first and second end portions 508 and 512 to one another. Further, a wide range of other suitable means can be employed for engaging the first and second end portions 508 and 512 to one another, including magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, combinations thereof, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 9, the lower edge portion 520 of restraint 500 is generally straight. The upper edge portion 524 includes two curved end portions 560 and 564 and a generally straight medial portion 566. The curved end portions 560 and 564 curve generally downward towards the lower edge portion 520. Accordingly, the restraint 500 is wider at its end portions 508 and 512 than at its medial portion 516. This curved configuration can accommodate the user's shoulder blades and arms in that the narrower medial portion 516 of the restraint 500 can be positioned generally across the user's back generally under the arms and generally below the shoulder blades. The restraint's end portions 508 and 512 can be positioned over the user's breasts. Alternative embodiments, however, can include a restraint having a generally uniform width, and upper and lower edges that are generally straight and substantially parallel with one another.

Some exemplary embodiments include wrapping the restraint 500 around the torso, and then engaging the first and second end portions 508 and 512 to one another. Alternative embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 508 and 512 to one another, and then slipping the user's head and arms through the restraint 500 to position the restraint 500 generally around the torso and over the user's breasts. Still other embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 508 and 512 to one another, and then slipping the user's feet, legs, and waist through the restraint 500 to position the restraint 500 generally around the user's torso and over the user's breasts.

In one particular embodiment, the breast restraint 500 is sized dimensionally such that its width (distance separating the upper and lower edge portions 524 and 520 inclusive of the elastic and ruffle portions 544 and 548) is about ten and one-half inches at the end portions 508 and 512 and about three and three-fourths inches at the medial portion 516. Excluding the elastic and ruffle portions for this particular embodiment, the width of the restraint 500 is about seven and one-half inches at the end portions 508 and 512 and about three-fourths inches at the medial portion 516. The dimensions set forth in this paragraph (as are all dimensions herein) are mere examples and can be varied as understood by those skilled in the art.

As shown in FIG. 14, the breast restraint 500 can be used in combination with a conventional sports bra 504 or other type bra. But the restraint 500 can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra underneath the restraint 500, as shown in FIG. 15. In either case, the breast restraint 500 can help inhibit and reduce excessive breast movement while a female (or male) exercises or performs some other vigorous activity.

FIGS. 16 through 19 illustrate an exemplary strapless breast restraint 600 having elasticized upper and lower edge portions 624 and 620. As shown, the restraint 600 includes elastic 644 and ruffles 648 along the breast restraint's upper and lower edge portions 624 and 620. The elastic 644 and ruffles 648 extend continuously along substantially the entire length of the restraint 600 from the first end portion 608 to the second end portion 612. Alternatively, the elastic 644 and/or ruffles 648 may be discontinuous and/or extend along less than the substantial entire length of the restraint 600.

In this particular embodiment, the restraint 600 includes ruffles 648 on both the inside and the outside. Functionally, ruffles 648 include extra material to accommodate for the stretching of the elastic 644. In addition to this functionality, having ruffles 648 on the outside of the restraint 600 can also improve the aesthetic appearance of the breast restraint 600, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19. In other embodiments, the inside and/or outside ruffles 648 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 600 is fastened about a wearer's torso. For example, the inside ruffles 648 can be configured to be relatively smoothed out when the breast restraint 600 is fastened about a wearer's torso, thus providing a restraint that may be more comfortable to wear. Alternatively, other embodiments include ruffles only on the inside or the outside (but not both) and/or ruffles that are not configured to be smoothed out when the breast restraint is being worn.

In the particular illustrated embodiment, the ruffles 648 along the upper edge portion 624 include stitching 652 generally along the middle thereof. Similarly, the ruffles 648 along the lower edge portion 620 also include stitching 652 generally along the middle thereof. Alternate embodiments, however, do not include such stitching along either or both of the upper and lower ruffle portions.

In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic 644 disposed along the upper edge portion 624 comprises two elastic band portions that are retained to the breast restraint 600 in part by sewing or stitching. More specifically, the upper elastic band portion is disposed generally between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 600 and retained therein by stitching 652 and 668. The lower elastic band portion is also disposed between the front and back surfaces of the material(s) forming the restraint 600 and retained therein by stitching 652 and 672. Likewise, the elastic 644 disposed along the lower edge portion 620 also includes two elastic band portions, with the upper one being retained generally between stitching 652 and 668, and the lower elastic band portion being retained generally between 652 and 672. Alternatively, the elastic 644 along either or both the upper and lower edge portions 624, 620 can include any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) elastic bands. In addition, other means of retaining the elastic 644 to the breast restraint 600 can also be employed in other embodiments.

In this particular embodiment, the elastic 644 can help ensure that the breast restraint 600 creates and maintains a relatively snug fit about the wearer's torso (and thus sufficiently compresses the bust against the wearer's rib cage to restrain excessive side-to-side and/or up-and-down movement of the breasts). The particular material or materials used for the elastic portions 644 can depend at least in part on user preference, size, and the type of activity to be performed while wearing the restraint 600.

The breast restraint 600 also includes hooks 636 and three spaced-apart vertical columns of eyelets 640 located on the back portion of the breast restraint 600 when positioned about a user's torso. The functional length of the restraint 600 will depend on which particular column of eyelets 640 are selectively engaged with the hooks 636. Alternatively, any suitable number of (i.e., one or more) hooks and eyelets and in any suitable configuration (e.g., spacing, in one or more rows, in one or more columns, combinations thereof, etc.) can be provided for fastening the restraint's first and second end portions 608 and 612 to one another. Further, a wide range of other suitable means can be employed for engaging the first and second end portions 608 and 612 to one another, including magnets, snaps, buttons, clasps, hooks and eyelets, hooks and holes, combinations thereof, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 9, the lower edge portion 620 of restraint 600 is generally straight. The upper edge portion 624 includes two generally straight end portions 660 and 664 and a generally upwardly curved medial portion 666. Accordingly, the restraint 600 is wider at its medial portion 616 than at its end portions 608, 612. This curved configuration can accommodate the user's shoulder blades and arms in that the narrower end portions 608, 612 of the restraint 600 can thus be positioned generally across the user's back generally under the arms and generally below the shoulder blades. Alternative embodiments, however, can include a restraint having a generally uniform width, and upper and lower edges that are generally straight and substantially parallel with one another.

Some exemplary embodiments include wrapping the restraint 600 around the torso, and then engaging the first and second end portions 608 and 612 to one another generally from the back of the user. Some exemplary embodiments include wrapping the restraint 600 around the torso, engaging the first and second end portions 608 and 612 generally from the front of the user, and then rotating or twisting the restraint 600 such that the end portions 608 and 612 are at the back of the user. Further embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 608 and 612 to one another, and then slipping the user's head and arms through the restraint 600 to position the restraint 600 generally around the torso and over the user's breasts. Still other embodiments include engaging the first and second end portions 608 and 612 to one another, and then slipping the user's feet, legs, and waist through the restraint 600 to position the restraint 600 generally around the user's torso and over the user's breasts.

In one particular embodiment, the breast restraint 600 is sized dimensionally such that its width (distance separating the upper and lower edge portions 624 and 620 inclusive of the elastic and ruffle portions 644 and 648) is about three and three-fourths inches at the end portions 608 and 612 and about ten and one-half inches at the medial portion 616. Excluding the elastic and ruffle portions for this particular embodiment, the width of the restraint 600 is about three-fourths inches at the end portions 608 and 612 and about seven and one-half inches at the medial portion 616. The dimensions set forth in this paragraph (as are all dimensions herein) are mere examples and can be varied as understood by those skilled in the art.

As shown in FIG. 18, the breast restraint 600 can be used in combination with a conventional sports bra 604 or other type bra. But the restraint 600 can also be worn by a wearer who is not wearing a sports bra or other type of bra underneath the restraint 600, as shown in FIG. 19. In either case, the breast restraint 600 can help inhibit and reduce excessive breast movement while a female (or male) exercises or performs some other vigorous activity.

In various embodiments of the invention, a restraint (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, etc.) and its components can be formed from a wide range of suitable materials, such as fabrics, leather, plastics, cotton, textiles, ferrous and non-ferrous metal foils, polymers, foams, elastic materials, combinations thereof, among others.

There is a delicate balance between the restraint's elasticity. That is, the material(s) used for the restraint should have sufficient elasticity for maintaining a snug or close fit, but also should be sufficiently inelastic for adequately compressing the user's breasts against the user for restraining excessive breast movement. Accordingly, in various embodiments, a restraint is formed of one or more fabric material(s) having sufficient elasticity so as to ensure a snug or close fit (and thus sufficient compression of the bust against the wearer's rib cage to restrain excessive side-to-side and/or up-and-down movement of the breasts), but the material(s) is also sufficiently inelastic so that the restraint avoids contributing to movement of the breasts during exercising or other activities. The particular material or materials used for a restraint can depend at least in part on user preference, size, and the type of activity to be performed while wearing the restraint.

In various embodiments of the invention, a restraint (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, etc.) can include an exterior surface comprising any of wide range of colors and/or color combinations. In various embodiments of the invention, a restraint can include lace, embroidery, indicia or graphic elements to make the restraint more visually appealing.

Restraints (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, etc.) of the present invention can also be provided in various sizes, depending on the particular application and size of the person that will be wearing the breast restraint. In addition, the materials, shapes, sizes, and configurations of the various components described herein may vary depending on the requirements of the particular application in which the breast restraint or support will be used. The various materials, shapes, sizes, and configurations shown in the figures are for illustrative purposes only.

According to another aspect, the invention provides methods of restraining breast movement. In an exemplary embodiment, the method generally includes substantially entirely covering a user's breasts by wrapping a strapless breast restraint (e.g., 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, etc.) around the user's torso. While wrapping, the breast restraint can also be positioned over a bra being worn by the user. Alternatively, the breast restraint can also be wrapped around the torso of a user who is not wearing a bra. The restraint's first and second end portions of the restraint are engaged such that the restraint compresses the user's breasts firmly against the user. The first and second end portions can be engaged to one another at a position generally between the user's breasts. Alternatively, the first and second end portions can be engaged at a position generally between the user's shoulder blades. The method can also include positioning an upper curved edge portion of the restraint generally across the user's back under the arms and below the shoulder blades. The method can further include adjusting a functional length of the restraint.

Accordingly, various embodiments can restrain or inhibit excessive breast movement and the discomfort caused thereby. For example, embodiments of the present invention can allow well-endowed women to participate in activities without having to endure the discomfort normally caused by excessive breast movement during such activities. In addition, embodiments of the present invention can be easier to fit and use than many traditional sports bra, which, at times, can be rather difficult to properly fit. In various embodiments, a restraint includes one or more of the following characteristics including simplicity in construction, use, ease of adjustability, and manufacture.

The teachings, aspects, and various embodiments of the invention can be used in combination with a wide range of sports bras and traditional bras. Accordingly, the specific references to sports bras herein should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention to use with any specific form/type of sports bra. In addition, the teachings, aspects, and various embodiments can also be used by females or other persons regardless of whether that person is wearing a bra and/or participating in any athletic activity. Plus, aspects of the invention are not limited to use by just females or athletes as any person, male or female, who experiences discomfort from excessive breast movement may be able to benefit from one or more of the embodiments of this invention.

Certain terminology is used herein for purposes of reference only, and thus is not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper”, “lower”, “above”, and “below” refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “top”, “bottom” and “side”, describe the orientation of portions of the component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated drawings describing the component under discussion. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Similarly, the terms “first”, “second” and other such numerical terms referring to structures do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context.

When introducing elements or features of the present invention and the exemplary embodiments, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of such elements or features. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements or features other than those specifically noted.

The description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

1. A method of restraining excessive breast movement while a user engages in vigorous activity, the method comprising substantially entirely covering the user's breasts by wrapping a strapless breast restraint around the user's torso, and engaging first and second end portions of the strapless breast restraint to one another to thereby fasten the strapless breast restraint about the user's torso, whereby the strapless breast restraint compresses the substantial entirety of the user's breasts firmly against the user including compression at about a forward-most point of the user's breasts.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein wrapping includes positioning the strapless breast restraint over a bra being worn by the user.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes an upper edge portion having a generally downwardly parabolically curved portion, and wherein wrapping includes positioning the curved portion across the back of the user under the user's arms and generally below the user's shoulder blades and positioning the first and second end portions over the user's breasts, and wherein the first and second end portions are engaged to one another at a position generally between the user's breasts.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes an upper edge portion having a generally straight middle portion and curved end portions curving generally downward towards the generally straight middle portion such that the strapless breast restraint is wider at the first and second end portions than at a medial portion, wherein wrapping includes positioning the medial portion across the back of the user and positioning the first and second end portions over the user's breasts, and wherein the first and second end portions are engaged to one another at a position generally between the user's breasts.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes an upper edge portion having generally straight end portions and a curved middle portion such that the strapless breast restraint is wider at a medial portion than at the first and second end portions, wherein wrapping includes positioning the medial portion over the user's breasts, and wherein the first and second end portions are engaged to one another at a position on the back of the user.
 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising adjusting a functional length of the restraint.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion, at least one of said upper and lower edge portions being elasticized, and wherein wrapping includes stretching the at least one elasticized edge portion, whereby the at least one elasticized edge portion helps the strapless breast restraint maintain a relatively snug fit about the user's torso.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes ruffles disposed at least partially along the at least one elasticized edge portion, and wherein wrapping includes smoothing out the ruffles to accommodate the stretching of the at least one elasticized edge portion.
 9. A strapless breast restraint useable with a bra for restraining excessive breast movement while a user engages in vigorous activity, the strapless breast restraint comprising generally opposed first and second end portions, an attachment device for engaging the first end portion with the second end portion, the strapless breast restraint configured to be wrapped around the user's torso and substantially entirely cover the user's breasts to compress the substantial entirety of the user's breasts firmly against the user including compression at about a forward-most point of the user's breasts.
 10. The strapless breast restraint of claim 9, further comprising an upper edge portion, the upper edge portion having a generally downwardly parabolically curved portion configured for positioning across the back of the user under the arms and below the shoulder blades, wherein the first and second end portions are configured for positioning over the user's breasts, and wherein the attachment device is located at a position generally between the user's breasts when the strapless breast restraint is wrapped around and fastened about the user's torso.
 11. The strapless breast restraint of claim 9, further comprising an upper edge portion, the upper edge portion having a generally straight middle portion and curved end portions that curve generally downward towards the generally straight middle portion such that the strapless breast restraint is wider at the first and second end portions than at a medial portion, wherein the medial portion is configured for positioning across the back of the user, wherein the first and second end portions are configured for positioning over the user's breasts, and wherein the attachment device is located at a position generally between the user's breasts when the strapless breast restraint is wrapped around and fastened about the user's torso.
 12. The strapless breast restraint of claim 9, further comprising an upper edge portion, the upper edge portion having generally straight end portions and a curved middle portion such that the strapless breast restraint is wider at a medial portion than at the first and second end portions, wherein the medial portion is configured for positioning over the user's breasts, and wherein the attachment device is located at a position on the back of the user when the strapless breast restraint is wrapped around and fastened about the user's torso.
 13. The strapless breast restraint of claim 9, further comprising means for adjusting a functional length of the strapless breast restraint.
 14. The strapless breast restraint of claim 9, further comprising an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion, at least one of said upper and lower edge portions being elasticized for helping the strapless breast restraint maintain a relatively snug fit about the user's torso.
 15. The strapless breast restraint of claim 14, further comprising ruffles disposed at least partially along the at least one elasticized edge portion to accommodate the stretching of the at least one elasticized edge portion.
 16. In combination with a bra, a strapless breast restraint for restraining excessive breast movement while a user engages in vigorous activity, the strapless breast restraint comprising generally opposed first and second end portions, an attachment device for engaging the first end portion with the second end portion, the strapless breast restraint configured to be wrapped around the user's torso and over the bra being worn by the user to thereby substantially entirely cover the user's breasts and compress the substantial entirety of the user's breasts firmly against the user including compression at about a forward-most point of the user's breasts.
 17. The combination of claim 16, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes an upper edge portion, the upper edge portion having a generally downwardly parabolically curved portion configured for positioning across the back of the user under the arms and below the shoulder blades, wherein the first and second end portions are configured for positioning over the user's breasts, and wherein the attachment device is located at a position generally between the user's breasts when the strapless breast restraint is wrapped around and fastened about the user's torso.
 18. The combination of claim 16, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes an upper edge portion, the upper edge portion having a generally straight middle portion and curved end portions that curve generally downward towards the generally straight middle portion such that the strapless breast restraint is wider at the first and second end portions than at a medial portion, wherein the medial portion is configured for positioning across the back of the user, wherein the first and second end portions are configured for positioning over the user's breasts, and wherein the attachment device is located at a position generally between the user's breasts when the strapless breast restraint is wrapped around and fastened about the user's torso.
 19. The combination of claim 16, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes an upper edge portion, the upper edge portion having generally straight end portions and a curved middle portion such that the strapless breast restraint is wider at a medial portion than at the first and second end portions, wherein the medial portion is configured for positioning over the user's breasts, and wherein the attachment device is located at a position on the back of the user when the strapless breast restraint is wrapped around and fastened about the user's torso.
 20. The combination of claim 16, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes means for adjusting a functional length of the strapless breast restraint.
 21. The combination of claim 16, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion, at least one of said upper and lower edge portions being elasticized for helping the strapless breast restraint maintain a relatively snug fit about the user's torso.
 22. The combination of claim 16, wherein the strapless breast restraint includes ruffles disposed at least partially along the at least one elasticized edge portion to accommodate the stretching of the at least one elasticized edge portion. 